Column: Abusing the rules is taking it too far

Communication, not sexual harassment, is the best soltuion in the work place

Anibal Ortiz / Roundup

Walking across the dining room floor, I noticed the much older lady give me a wink.

Having served her in the past, I walked over and felt as she put her arm around my back. After telling her party the dinner specials, her hand slid slowly down my back, and with a firm grip, she winked again.

We all encounter sexual harassment of some sort, whether we find it in the workplace, at school or around peers.

Sexual harassment is a serious offense, but it seems the meaning has been skewed. The term has turned into a game, of sorts, in which only the popular kid is allowed to play.

The fact you don’t like a person should not be the sole reason to accuse them of sexual harassment.

It is healthy to be part of an environment which allows you to express yourself, and if you do so by showing more affection than others, so be it.

The ability to express emotion and sentiment should not be limited, but clear boundaries must be set between each group of people respectably.

Each individual should make it clear what they do and don’t allow. If you don’t like a person, be blunt and tell them how you feel.

Being as straightforward as possible is the most effective way of getting the message across and should always be the first step taken before crying harassment.

Filing for sexual harassment should not be applicable for people who are not directly involved with the actions. To obsess over the actions of others and suggest you were sexually harassed is preposterous and should not be allowed.

Those actions do not concern you.

There are actions that should not be permitted under any circumstances, however—namely, physical abuse and assault.

Although the number of reported cases have declined, it is important to seek safety when in need of help.

According to statistics compiled from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the number of sexual harassment grievances filed has decreased by 3,379 over the last decade.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission can be reached toll-free for advice and information at 1-(800) 669-4000.